Instep Dance Studio

Instep Dance Studio, located in Houghton Bay, Wellington, is a dance school catering to the dance needs of children in the area. The studio boasts qualified teachers who specialise in ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance, ensuring that students receive exceptional training in these disciplines.

At Instep Dance Studio, there are classes available for all school-aged children, as well as fun preschool ballet-based dance classes. The studio offers a FREE trial class for potential students, allowing them to experience the joy of dance before making a commitment.

Established in 2003 by Lesley McElwain, Instep Dance Studio has quickly become one of the leading dance studios in Wellington. With over 20 years of experience, Lesley holds an associate diploma qualification in dance teaching and is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and passion with children. She graduated from the New Zealand School of Dance in 2000, where she studied classical ballet and contemporary dance full time.

In addition to Lesley McElwain, the studio boasts a team of talented teachers who contribute to the success of their students. Amelie Moriarty, an advanced 2 ballet, jazz, and contemporary student, serves as a junior ballet and contemporary teacher, inspiring young dancers to reach their full potential.

The team of teachers at Instep Dance Studio is complemented by a group of esteemed former students who have gone on to achieve success in the world of dance. Leslie Bowman, a 2015 graduate of Laine Theatre Arts in London, has starred in Thriller Live and has been a cast member in London's West End productions of Hamilton and West Side Story. Isabelle Nelson, a 2011 graduate of the New Zealand School of Dance, has worked with Java Dance Company in New Zealand and has been a freelance performer in the Netherlands. Ellie Wright, another 2011 graduate of the New Zealand School of Dance, has also made a mark in the dance industry.

Bridget O'Connor, a nominee for the 2013 National Awards in Jazz and Contemporary Dance and a choreographer for the 2013 winning stage challenge, has been a dance instructor at Camp America in 2014. Nicole Saunders, accepted in 2015 to study dance at Unitec, and Caterina Moreno, an extra in the Royal New Zealand Ballet's 2018 production of The Nutcracker and a 2023 graduate of the New Zealand School of Dance, have also been integral to the success of Instep Dance Studio. Matilda Wallace and Isabella Wallace, both extras in the Royal New Zealand Ballet productions, have also made contributions to the dance community.

Overall, Instep Dance Studio is a reputable dance school in Wellington, offering exceptional training in ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance. With a team of qualified teachers and accomplished former students, the studio is dedicated to nurturing the talents and dreams of every dancer who walks through its doors.